Physicians' role and gender differences in the management of parents of a stillborn child: A nationwide study

Abstract

During spring 1997 all gynecologists working at gynecology departments in Sweden were sent a questionnaire regarding their role in, and attitudes to, the management of the parents of a stillborn child. Of 871 gynecologists approached, 761 answered the questionnaire (87%). The majority considered that the parents should hold the child (94%), that the child should be given a name (80%) and that the child should be photographed (92%). A smaller proportion considered that labor should be started within 24 h (40 %) and that siblings should see the child (55%). A minority experienced guilt at what had happened (12%) and one-third were anxious about possible disciplinary measures (30%). The majority of the gynecologists stated that the need for guidance was urgent (90%) but that only a minority had received this (40%). Regarding gender differences, it emerged that the female gynecologists did not consider there was an age limit for siblings to see the child (p = 0.003), were less inclined to prescribe tranquilizers (p = 0.001) or to prolong the parents' sick-listing (p = 0.020). These differences remained after regression analysis was performed using background variables as covariates. In summary, this study demonstrates a great need for guidance; but that only a minority of the gynecologists get this. The lack of guidance/training may in the future increase the risk of this professional group becoming ‘burnt out’.

Key Words:

• stillborn
• gender
• obstetrician's attitude